Second Annual Reading Of The Declaration Of Independence

Assembly Member Brian Barnwell accompanies a young member of the community who reads from the Declaration of Independence in Maspeth Memorial Square.Assembly Member Brian Barnwell (District 30) partnered with Maspeth Federal Savings and community members to hold the Second Annual Declaration of Independence reading on June 29 in Maspeth Memorial Square.

An impressive list of community members of diverse backgrounds and ages read portions of the document. Readers included various members of law enforcement, teachers, veterans, schoolchildren, members of AARP, community civic groups, members of the community board, the Girl Scouts, NYS Senator Joe Addabbo, and many others. Close to 100 people braved the blistering heat to honor one of our founding documents.

Assembly Member Barnwell said, “It is important to re-read this document time and time again. The founders pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor in attempting to obtain independence for themselves and for future generations of Americans. As an elected official, I believe this pledge still holds true today. The promise of the Declaration is freedom and equality. We must always strive to live up to these ideals.”

“July 4th is always a special day here in America,” said NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. State Senator Joe Addabbo spoke at the Second Annual Declaration of Independence reading on June 29. Assembly Member Brian Barnwell, who hosted the event, looks on.“It is a day when we celebrate our country’s independence and the bravery of the men and women who helped liberate us from British rule. However, it is also a time when we should reflect on our country and aim to make better what our founding fathers began back in 1776. I would like to thank Assemblyman Brian Barnwell for hosting this great event.”

The event also celebrated the service of 92-year-old World War II veteran Arthur Grabiner. He was awarded two citations for his heroic service during World War II. The event also showcased the John Bowne High School drill team.

Barnwell noted that Maspeth Federal Savings “proudly partnered with him” to host the second annual Reading of the Declaration of Independence in Maspeth Memorial Square. He added that the community participated in reading this historic document, “serving as an important reminder of the significance of the Independence Day holiday and all that it represents.”

WOTM (Woodside On The Move) Executive Director Mike Vaz was one of the readers. Vaz stated, “More than ever, we need to stand together as one, indivisible. The Declaration of Independence reading brought out the best of Queens and America. From our youth reading the Declaration of Independence, to thanking our veterans for their service, this was a great moment in reflection of why America is the land of the free, as we celebrate our nation’s birthday.”